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Domenec PereraSpanish footballer, striker, coach
Date of Birth: 29.12.1914
Country:  Spain |
Content:
- Early Life and Football Beginnings
- Joining FC Barcelona
- Success and Civil War Interruption
- Post-War Return to Barcelona
- Coaching Career
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Domènec Balmanya was born on December 29, 1914, in Girona, Catalonia, Spain. His football journey commenced with his hometown club, Girona, where he joined as a 14-year-old. By the age of 17, he had established himself as a key player.
Joining FC Barcelona
Balmanya's talent caught the attention of FC Barcelona, and he joined the Catalan giants for the 1935-1936 season. His debut came on November 10, 1935, in a match against Espanyol, and despite Barcelona's defeat, he impressed manager Patrick O'Connell. Balmanya quickly became a mainstay in the team, featuring in 40 games that season.
Success and Civil War Interruption
Barcelona enjoyed a successful campaign in 1935-1936, winning the Catalan Championship and reaching the final of the Copa del Rey, but their triumph was cut short by the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War. The club continued to compete in the Mediterranean League, which they won, but the conflict forced them to embark on a tour of Mexico and the United States.
Post-War Return to Barcelona
Following the end of the war, Franco's government imposed a six-year ban on players who had left the country. However, Barcelona president Enrique Piñeyro managed to secure the return of Balmanya and Escolà in 1941. Despite a disappointing league campaign, Barcelona won the Copa del Rey with Balmanya playing a crucial role.
Coaching Career
After retiring as a player, Balmanya returned to football as a coach. He rejoined his former Barcelona teammate Juan Nogués, who was coaching Gimnàstic de Tarragona. Under their guidance, Gimnàstic gained promotion to the Primera División and defeated Barcelona in the Copa del Generalísimo, with Balmanya scoring against his former club. He later had stints with Sant Andreu and returned to Gimnàstic as their coach.
